Arunachal Pradesh Toursim

The state of Arunachal Pradesh, known for its ethereal beauty, is also known for its beautiful villages and small towns. These villages and small towns are spread across the state beautifying Arunachal Pradesh. Villages in Arunachal depict a beautiful view of lush green forests and high peaks. Tourists interested in rural or village tourism would have a delightful experience in Arunachal.

Chaglagam is a picturesque area located on the left of the Dalai river. The place is located at a distance of 170 km from Tezu and 107 km from Hawai. Situated about 1258 m above the sea level, Chaglagam has immense potential as a tourist destination as it is a place of immaculate natural beauty. Chaglagam is a paradise for the nature lovers. Chaglagam is one fantastic place for rural tourism where other than scenic beauty travelers can also get a glimpse of the ethnic culture of the Mishmi tribe.

Dirang

Dirang is the sub divisional headquarters of the West Kameng district in Arunachal Pradesh. The place is situated between Bomdila and Tawang at an altitude of 1497m / 4910 feet. Dirang is famous for its ethereal natural beauty. The weather of Dirang is mild and remains temperate throughout the year.

Dirang welcomes tourists for rural tourism as it is a place of immaculate scenic beauty. The lush greenery all around and the green valleys are awe-inspiring to tourists. Once in Dirang you will get to see apple nursery, kiwi farm and yak research center. Also during your tour visit the Dirang fort also known as Dirang Jong, an important monument in Dirang. The fort, a two storied building, has historical significance for the Monpas of Dirang. The archeological Department of Arunachal Pradesh has declared the fort as a national monument. There is also a  hot spring is located about a kilometer ahead of Dirang, supposed to have curative properties. Aslo visit orchid sanctuary paphiopedilum fairieanum- 'the lost lady slipper orchid' in Dirang which is very rare, endangered and endemic orchid.

Rupa

Kazu Village

Kazu village, situated on the banks of the colorful Yomgo River, is a splendid green village in Arunachal. Tourists interested in village tourism would be spellbound seeing the beauty of the village. While in Kazu village get to enjoy the small houses in the midst of green trees and enjoy the traditional houses made of bamboo and leaves and the clear stream flowing past Kazu Village.

Vijoynagar is located in the Indo-Myanmar border and comprises of sixteen villages. Around 55% of the population belongs to retired Assam rifle personnel and the other 45% is of civilians of mainly Lisu tribe. This place was earlier known as 'Outside World’. The people here depend on Jhum cultivation and wetland for their livelihood. Vijoynagar is an ideal place to enjoy village tourism in Arunachal.

Tenzingang is home to a large number of Tibetans. There are the Tantric university and carpet industries in the place. The Gyuto Tantric monastery is situated at Tenzingaon. The monastery was built in 1975-76 and  imparts training to the monks to teach them about tantrums. Visit these villages to get a glimpse of the Tibetan culture.

There are several places in Arunachal Pradesh which promote nature tourism in the state. Situated on the lap of mother nature, Arunachal Pradesh is truly a nature's paradise with exotic and exceptional scenic beauty. Arunachal is the best place for nature lovers to escape amidst nature. If you are looking for nature tourism in Arunachal, check these places out.

Itanagar

The capital of Arunachal, Itanagar is a superbly beautiful places. The first place you visit in Arunachal would be definitely Itanagar. The places of tourist interest in Itanagar are Ita Fort, Indira Gandhi Park, Hanuman Mandir, Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Ganga lake, Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, Buddha temple among others.

Kangto Peak

Kangto peak is the highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh. Located close to the India-China border at a longitude of 92 06’ and latitude of 27 08' and is 7090 metres high, the peak is a place of tremendous scenic beauty. The Kameng river is fed by the snowfields and glaciers of the mountain. The peak is difficult to access and is clad with snow. Thick forests add to the beauty of the peak. The sight of the Kangto peak is truly amazing with snow garlanding the mountains.

Situated close to the Indo-China border, at an altitude of 1305 meters above the sea level, Kibithoo is a nature's paradise. The pine forests, beautiful flowers, lofty hills and majestic waterfalls here are the primary attractions of the place which make the place a truly ethereal one. Kibithoo has also witnessed the fight between the Indian and the Chinese soldiers.

Sangti

Situated 12 km from Dirang, Sangti valley is another interesting nature tourism spot in Arunachal. The main attraction of the valley is the pristine beauty of the place. The mountain and the natural vegetation of the place are awe-inspiring. Sangti valley is a also paradise for bird watchers as it is home to the endangered back necked cranes which come here during the winter months. Sangti is an ideal destination for picnic because of its natural beauty.

A small hamlet located near the Walong circle at a distance of about 200 kms from Tezu, Dong is an exceptionally beautiful place where from one can see the sunrise. Dong is one perfect place as nature tourism which provides a spectacular view of the sunrise with the snow capped mountains and the blue pine forest in the first rays of the day. This sight in Dong is a must to do thing in Arunachal

Situated in Itanagar Polo Park is a botanical garden situated on a ridge and is an ideal nature tourist spot. Nature lovers would find here a wide variety of plants in the park. Get to see in the park thickets of cane and a wide variety of exotic flowers and orchids. There is also a zoo inside the park where one can see different reptiles and animals. Also there is also a handicraft center in the park run by the industries department.

Riutala is a hill where from many rivers like Sipit, Yammeng, Simong Patang, and Tangam Patang have originated. There are many caves near this place which form a major attraction. The place is a famous pilgrimage site for the Buddhists as they regard it as a paradise of Awalokeshwara, which means the paradise of Chensiri, the Dalai Lama. The place is six days march on foot from Tuting and every year many Buddhist pilgrims come to offer their prayers here.
 

Walong

Situated at an altitude of 1094 meters above the sea level and located 200 kms from Tezu, Walong is another place of immense scenic beauty in Arunachal. The name Walong in the Mishmi dialect means ‘a place of bamboos’.  Namti valley, commonly known as Namti Maidan, is placed above 7 km from Wallong. The pine trees in the place are its major attraction. Wallong is a historical place as it witnessed the battle between the Indian soldiers and the Chinese troops in 1962. To commemorate the sacrifice of the soldiers a war memorial has been built in the place.

Hayuliang

Situated at a distance of 100 km from Tezu, 750 m from the sea level, Hayuliang is one fantastic place to woo nature tourists to the place. Hayuliang in the Mishmi dialect means ‘the place of my liquor’. The climate of Hayuliang remains cool throughout the year so it can be visited round the year. Hayuliang, owing to is scenic beauty makes it an ideal spot for sight seeing. The panoramic view of the confluence of the Dalai and the Lohit river and the scenic surrounding are the attraction thereby becoming a paradise for the nature lovers.

This place is located on a plateau and is surrounded by the Nyigong river. The place is abut 40 kms from Tuting and is accessible only by porter back. 'Nay' means holy place and 'Dewakota' means ‘Abode of God’ in Sanskrit. According to the natives, Guru Rimpoche has kept many sacred treasures here which are yet to be revealed. There are many caves here which remain closed submerged under Nyigong river and open up only during winter. It is believed that those who visit Dewakota three times attain heaven and the sins of life get removed.

Sela Pass

The Sela Pass is a high altitude mountain pass located at a distance of 78 km from Tawang between the towns of Bomdila and Jung. Sela Pass is a paradise of nature. The climate in the Pass is windy and misty with no tress but thin grass. Sela Pass gets heavy snow during winter. Snow-covered areas around the pass and the snow clad mountains around gives tourists a breath taking experience. The pass remains open throughout the year. The mountain range has ethereal beauty. It is windy and misty up at Sela. Sela Pass gets heavy snow during winter. A view of the snow-clad mountain is a wonder to the eyes. The snow-covered area around the pass gives the tourists a breath taking experience.

Geshila Peak

This peak is located about 25 kms from Tawang. The summit of the peak provides a unique view of the whole Tawang district at a glance. The range where this peak is located, the Geshila range runs along the north-eastern side of Tawang and is like protection wall to the town.

Gorichen Peak

Gorichen Peak is the highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh and is located in between the Tawang and the West Kameng districts. The peak is located near the China border and is stands at a height of 22,500 feet. The peak is located at a distance of 164 kms from Tawang and is also known as Sa-Nga-Phu which literally means the Kingdom of Deity. This peak is considered to be a sacred peak according to the Monpa tribe protecting them from all evils. It is a rock and ice peak and is a sub range of the Eastern Himalayas. It is an ideal peak for trekkers and mountaineers. The mountain received is first ascent by a team led by Dutchman Ronald Naar in 1933 who couldn’t get a permit in time due to the bureaucracy of the Government and so made an illegal ascent.

Bhalukpong

Bhalukpong is the entry point of Arunachal Pradesh situated at the border of Assam and Arunachal. It is a small town lying along the southern reaches of the Himalayas in the West Kameng district. The scenic beauty of the place is the major attraction of Bhalukpong located 213 m above the sea level near the Kameng river. Bhalukpong is known as nature’s paradise. It is an area of dense forest, high waterfalls and natural beauty which form the main attraction of the place. Bhalukpong is also famous for the archeological ruins of king Bhaluka, an ancient ruler of the region. The remains of the capital of the king and his grandson Bana of Mahabharata importance have been preserved in the region. At the foothills of the region a historical fort of the 10th-12th century AD is situated and tourists can spot the ruins of the fort. The river Kameng in Bhalukpong offers the tourists the opportunities of angling and rafting. It is an ideal destination for the hikers and trekkers. The mountains facilitate the tourists with an opportunity of trekking. Bhalukpong is also an ideal picnic spot for the possession of exquisite natural beauty.

Pangsau Pass

Pangsau Pass or Pan Saung Pass is located on the crest of the Patkai Hills on the Indo-Myanmar border, at an altitude of 3,727 feet and is named after the closest Burmese village, Pangsau which lies 2 kms from the pass towards its east. Pangsau Pass is an important route of the 13^th century of invasion of Assam by the Ahoms. Because of the fierce gradients and the mud which makes the ascent to the pass difficult, this pass was nicknamed as ‘Hell Pass’ during the World War II. The Pangsau Pass Winter Festival is a global village event organized every year in Nampong.

Arunachal Pradesh has many historically significant places as well as ruins and excavations which depict a historic tale of the state. The ruins and excavations of Arunachal Pradesh date back to many years back. These things of history are of very captivating interest to the tourists. Let us check out the historical places of Arunachal Pradesh. 

This is a burial ground recently unearthed and holds about 1000 graves of allied soldiers believed to be mostly of Chinese, Kachins, Indian, British and American soldiers who died in the Second World War. It is located in the Jairamour-Nampong road in Changlang district. The cemetery is located 7 kms from Jairampur and 25 kms from Pangsau Pass in the Indo-Myanmar border. The cemetery is hidden with thick jungles amidst the banks of the Namchik River.

During the construction of the Stilwell road and the fighting against the Japanese forces, a number of allied soldiers were reported to have died due to malaria, land slides, enemy fires and other causes. As such, this cemetery was used for disposal and burial of those dead soldiers. There are memoirs and inscriptions unearthed including one of a larger grave of a Chinese soldier stationed in India. This site is being renovated by the Department of Tourism, Arunachal Pradesh.

Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum

The Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum in Itanagar is an important tourist destination in Arunachal. Established in the 1980s, the museum showcases aspects of tribal life of Arunachal Pradesh like clothing, music instruments, weapons, headdress, handicraft, jewellery, artifacts and archeological finds.

Tuting-Gelling Circuit

Dirang Fort

Dirang is the sub divisional headquarters of the West Kameng district. The place is situated between Bomdila and Tawang. The Dirang fort also known as Dirang Jong is an important monument in Dirang. The fort has historical significance for the Monpas of Dirang. The archeological Department of Arunachal Pradesh has declared the fort as a national monument. It is a two storied building and was built with stone slabs and wooden logs.

The wooden gate leading to the fort is decorated with local architectural design. The fort was constructed in 1831 to defend against the invasions from the neighboring chiefdoms. The fort was the centre for military and judicial activities and served as an important centre of public administration. During Tibetan rule in Arunachal Pradesh the fort housed the Tibetan Governors.

Nijomaghat is a historical spot situated 15 km from Roing. It was established by the British in the 19^th century and is named after British political officer JF Needam. It was his access point for the British to enter in the hills. The spot is a wonderful picnic point also. The rocky surroundings of the place and the lush greenery of the natural vegetation gives a splendid look to the place. The river flowing between the mountains is beautiful to look at. One can have a glimpse of the entire series of mountain range from the spot.

In this place, one can see the aircraft debris of World War II which brings back memories and a picture of the World War. This place is suitable for trekking and one can also see the Myanmar territory and the Patkai Hills.

This settlement camp is located at a distance of 4 kms from Miao and is one of the oldest settlements for Tibetan refugees. The camp produces superior quality carpets in the global market engaging a number of people. The camp gains a good income annually. There are about 500 families in this camp. There is a beautiful monastery in the middle of the camp. It is the 45^th largest refugee settlement in India and 75^th in the world.
 

Jameri Megalithic site is situated near Kaspi village. It is highly significant to the people of the district as there are some scripts written on it. It is also a solitary island. The Megalithic site is far away from the main megalithic belt of Khasi-Jaintia and Cachar-Nagar.

The ruins of Dimachung-Betali are situated atop the Rowta forest range under Balemu circle. Over the site one could spot bricks and stone remnants. Few spots of the settlement area are encircled with the low retaining walls. Certain rock inscriptions have been found in the area. A muller stone with the impression of the Mahayani Buddhist mantra ‘Om Mane Pema Hum’ rock inscription were found in the place.

Jaswant Garh

On the way from Bomdila, one reaches the Jaswant Garh after half an hour drive from the Sela Pass. This place is named after the great Indian soldier Mahavir Chakra Jaswant Singh Rawat who fought alone against Chinese soldiers continuously for three days during the Sino-Indian War of 1962. The soldier made supreme sacrifice for the country. The Jaswant Ghar situated there is maintained well for visitors who come to pay salute to the brave soldier.

Bhismaknagar

Located in Dibang Valley district Bhismaknagar is a sacred heritage of the Idu Mishmis. Bhismaknagar is a symbol of past glory and high standard of civilisation. Bhismaknagar stands for what is best in the tribal and Aryans way of life.

Hill Stations in Arunachal

Arunachal Pradesh is a state of unmatched natural beauty. Places like Tawang, Bomdila, Ziro, Along and Pasighat are exceptionally beautiful places in Arunachal which welcome tourists as hill stations. These places are known for possessing splendid beauty. So, once in Arunachal don't miss to visit these hill stations.

Tawang

A visit to Arunachal would be worthwhile when you visit Tawang. Tawang is a paradise on earth known for its scenic beauty. Greenery, snow and valleys are the topmost things that make Tawang a tourist hotspot. So, be it the snow capped mountains, the lush green forests in the hills, religious spots and akes and waterfalls, the Tawang district is a must visit hill station in Arunachal. Do visit Sela Pass, Gorichen Peak, Shonga-tser Lake, Nuranang Waterfalls, Pankang Teng Tso Lake, Bumla Pass, Tawang Monastery, Taktsang Gompa among others.

Bomdila

Bomdila is another beautiful hill station in Arunachal known for its splendid beauty. With snow clad Himalayan mountain ranges and lush greenery Bomdila is a must visit place in Arunachal Pradesh. Bomdila has umpteen number of tourist places one can visit, important among them are Sessa Orchid Sanctuary, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, Dirang Valley, Apple Orchards, Tipi Orchidarium and Bomdila Monastery to name a few.

Ziro

Located in Lower Subansiri district Ziro is another topmost hill station of immense scenic beauty in Arunachal. So, while you visit Arunachal make sure that you donot miss visiting Ziro. The valleys, mountains and scenic beauty of Ziro is all to captivate you. Once in Ziro do visit Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Meghna Cave Temple, Kile Pakho, Midey, Ziro Puto, Dolo Mando, Hapoli, Dilopolyang Maniipolyang and Tipi Orchid Research Centre among other places.

Along

Situated in West Siang district, Along is a beautiful hill station. Set in a wide open valley Along valley gives onlookers a view of the hills covered with snow, and greenery all around. The major attractions of Along are Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Dayani Polo Temple and Akashiganga Falls.

Adventure Sports in Arunachal

For adventure sports to take place there should be the coordination of nature. This is one aspect where Arunachal stands at the top position. Arunachal Pradesh is a nature's paradise with nature showering a handful to the state. The rugged mountains, hill, dense forests and narrow valleys facilitate adventure sports in the state. Adventure sports lovers would have a lifetime experience here. Find out what all you can do in Arunachal.

Chaglogam is a picturesque town located on the left of the Dalai river. The trees and the snow-capped mountains of the valley is breath taking and is ideal for trekking and hiking. The high mountains  offers tourists an opportunity to trek. Dirang in West Kameng district is an ideal place for hiking, trekking and bird watching. Bomdila also facilitates excellent opportunities for trekking. Lohit District is also a wonderful place for trekking.

The Subansiri River is ideal for river rafting, angling and picnic.The Siang River and Kameng river provides excellent opportunity for exciting and thrilling river rafting. Angling and and fishing can also be enjoyed in Chaglogam. Camping is enjoyed the most in Chandu, Bomdila and Tawang.

Food of Arunachal

Food forms an integral part of tourism. When you are making tour of Arunachal you will definetely want to taste Arunachali food. The food of Arunachal is unique with its own delicious taste. Authentic Arunachali food is essentially boiled with the use of much meat, fish, vegetables, fermented bamboo shoots, herbs and lesser use of oil and spices. Taste tribal food like Dung Po (Steam Rice), Kholam (rice in bamboo tube), Wungwut Ngam (Chicken with rice powder), pasa (soup). Also dont miss to taste apang or rice beer, a popular alcoholic drink in Arunachal. 

Hotels in Arunachal

Arunachal Pradesh welcomes tourists with open arms. There are various hotels in Arunachal which provide quality accommodation at reasonable rate. So, while you visit Arunachal have a comfortable stay in these hotels. Check out the popular hotels in Arunachal.

Hotel Kameng
Address: Bank Tinali, Itanagar
Phone: 212869

Hotel Itafort
Address: Bank Tinali, Itanagar
Phone: 213253/212590

Hotel Kosing
Address: Near Petrol pump, C-Sector, Itanagar
Phone: 213074/211034

Hotel Blue Pine
Address: Ganga Market, Itanagar
Phone: 21118/212812

Hotel Siang Continental
Address: Near Petrol pump, Itanagar
Phone: 216015/216016

Hotel Alpine
Address: Ganga Market, Itanagar
Phone: 213253/214298

Hotel Buddha
Address: Tawang, Arunachal
Phone: 03788-223532

Hotel Gorichen
Address: Tawang, Arunachal
Phone: 03788-224683

Hotel Sangrilla
Address: Tawang, Arunachal
Phone: 03792-222275
 
Hotel Paradise
Address: Tawang, Arunachal
Phone: 03792-222063

Hotel Pine Ridge      
Address: Bomdila, Arunachal
Phone: 03782-222322

Hotel Hornbill
Address: Bhalukpong, Arunachal
Phone: 03782-234456

Awoo resort
Address: Bushthang, Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh
Phone: 03780-242036/03794202122

Shopping in Arunachal

If you are a shopaholic and you are looking for some ethnic and authentic handllom and handicraft products then Arunachal is th best place for you. Shopping proves to be an interesting activity in Arunachal Pradesh. Arunachal is a land of greenery so the essential item to shop here would be items made from nature's gift. Cane and bamboo products are the topmost things to buy from Arunachal markets. cane and bamboo items you can shop includes mirror, murahs, bags, hats, baskets, vessels, bamboo bangles and earings, wall hangings, photo frames and so on. You can also go for wonderful handloom shoppings like buying Sherdukpen shawls, Adi skirts, Apatani jackets and scarves, Mishmi shawls etc. Also shop masks, exquisitely painted wooden vessels and silver articles, carpets, beautifuly carved wooden cups, dishes, fruit bowls etc.

Tourist Information Centre Arunachal

In case of details regarding tourism in Arunachal, you can contact at the following places:

Director
Department of Tourism
Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh
Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh
Phone : +91-360-2214745
E-mail : info@arunachaltourism.com

Tourist Information Officer
Indiatourism Naharlagun
2nd floor, Bomseng Apartment, D-Sector, Barapani Market, Naharlagun - 791110, Arunachal Pradesh
Phone: 0360-244328, Fax: 0360-2244328
E-mail:ethnicglory@gmail.com

Important Websites:

• Arunachal Pradesh Tourism
• Information and Public Relations, Arunachal Pradesh
• Government Website, Arunachal Pradesh

Entry Formalities in Arunachal

Arunachal Pradesh falls under restricted area therefore official permission is required to enter the state. Two kinds of official permits Inner Line Permit (Indian tourists) and Protected Area Permit (foreign tourists) is required to be taken to enter any area in Arunachal. Inner line permit can be obtained from Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Shillong, Dibrugarh, Jorhat , Lakhimpur and Tezpur.

Tour Operators in Arunachal

For your comfortable Arunachal tourism these tour operators could be contacted:

Abor Country Travels & Expeditions
Address: Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh - 791111
Phone: +91 - 360 - 2211722

Discover Arunachal Tours & Travel
Address: Itanagar - 791110
Phone: +91-94360-43170

Donyi Hango Adventure Tours & Travels
Address: Naharlagun - 791110, Arunachal Pradesh
Phone : +91 - 360 - 2244977

Duyu Tours & Travels
Address: Itanagar -791113
Phone : +91 - 360 - 2216450 / 2218056

Himalayan Holidays
Address: Bomdila - 790001, Arunachal Pradesh.
Phone : +91 - 3782 - 222017